The DD Form 14, also known as the Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, is a crucial document that serves as proof of military service and eligibility for various benefits and services. Understanding the DD 14 process is essential for transitioning service members and veterans who are seeking to maximize their post-military opportunities.
The DD 14 is a multi-purpose document that provides information on the service member's:
In addition, the DD 14 may also include information on:
Service members who are separating or retiring from active duty are entitled to a DD 14. The document is typically issued at the time of separation or retirement, but it can also be requested later on.
To request a replacement DD 14, service members or veterans can contact the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) at 1-866-272-6272 or visit their website at https://www.archives.gov/veterans.
The DD 14 contains a wealth of information that can be confusing to interpret. Here is a guide to the most important sections:
The DD 14 is a vital document for accessing benefits and services, such as:
Pros:
Cons:
Story 1: A service member was discharged with an Honorable Discharge, but the reason for discharge was listed as "Lost at Sea." Upon returning home, he was met with a lot of laughter and jokes about being stranded on a deserted island with a volleyball for company. Lesson learned: Double-check your DD 14 for any errors before leaving the service.
Story 2: A veteran was applying for a job, and the employer asked for his DD 14. When the veteran handed over his DD 14, the employer noticed that the veteran's name was spelled incorrectly. The employer laughed and said, "Well, it looks like you're going to have to change your name before you can work here." Lesson learned: Ensure that the DD 14 is accurate before submitting it for employment or other purposes.
Story 3: A service member was discharged with a Dishonorable Discharge after being convicted of a crime. When the service member tried to use his DD 14 to apply for benefits, he was denied due to the nature of his discharge. Lesson learned: Understand the implications of your type of discharge before separating from service.
Table 1: Common Types of Discharge
Type of Discharge | Description |
---|---|
Honorable Discharge | Granted to service members who have served honorably and faithfully. |
General Discharge | Granted to service members who have not served honorably or faithfully, but who have not committed any misconduct that would warrant a Dishonorable Discharge. |
Bad Conduct Discharge | Granted to service members who have committed serious misconduct, but who have not committed any crimes that would warrant a Dishonorable Discharge. |
Dishonorable Discharge | Granted to service members who have committed serious crimes or misconduct. |
Table 2: Benefits and Services Available to Veterans
Benefit | Description |
---|---|
Healthcare | Veterans with a DD 14 are eligible for healthcare services through the VA. |
Education | Service members and veterans can use their DD 14 to qualify for educational benefits, such as the GI Bill. |
Housing | Veterans with a DD 14 may be eligible for housing assistance through the VA. |
Employment | Employers may require a DD 14 as proof of military experience and eligibility for certain jobs. |
Table 3: Potential Errors on a DD 14
Potential Error | Description |
---|---|
Incorrect name or Social Security Number | The service member's name or Social Security Number is misspelled or incorrect. |
Incorrect dates of service | The dates of service are incorrect. |
Incorrect character of service | The character of service is incorrect. |
Incorrect type of discharge | The type of discharge is incorrect. |
Incorrect reason for discharge | The reason for discharge is incorrect. |
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